The Residence Inn by Marriott, Omaha Downtown, is located in the Historic Federal Building on 15th and Dodge.  The Federal Building was recently converted into 152 suites that are built specifically to serve guests of Omaha that are staying for five nights or more.  Kyle Highberg is the General Manager of The Residence Inn by Marriott, Omaha Downtown.

How did you get started in the business? – Living in Maryland, I had no aspirations to be in the hotel industry.  In college, I needed a job to make ends meet so I got a job at a hotel.  My General Manager gave me a promotion in the first six weeks and asked to mentor me.  The rest is history.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – 2007 saw major changes in the hospitality industry due to the economic recession.  At that time, I was living in an East Coast town that was hit particularly hard.  Learning to adapt to changes in the way people traveled, tightening the belt of spending, and delivering great service to guests while maintaining profitability was a challenge.  At the same time, meeting that demand was extremely satisfying.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? – Being selected to assist in the building and opening of the Residence Inn has been truly amazing.  From the marketing, sales, development, training, and operations of the hotel, it has been great to see these things come together and come to life.

Tell me a little about your family. – I have a wonderful wife of nearly 11 years with whom I share 3 amazing children.  I have a son (9) and two daughters (7, 6) who love their Dad very much.  I’m truly blessed to have such a wonderful family to go home to each day!

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – When my wife gave birth to our son, it was the single biggest day of my life.  It focused me on taking care of my family rather than just myself and set me on the path to the career I love.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – What’s a day off?  In all seriousness, being with my family is the best thing I can do on a day off.  It revitalizes me for the next week.

What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – I am also a drummer and vocalist.  I am in a band with my wife and a few very close friends.

What are you the most proud of? – My family.  My children are amazing and full of love and happiness.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – No matter what your position is in your career or in life, you are never worth more than anyone, so treat everyone as such.

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Spirited.

Which talent would you most like to have? – I would love to speak many, many different languages.

What is your favorite movie? – Saving Private Ryan

What is your favorite TV show? – When Nebraska Football is on TV?

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – Call me anytime at (402) 342-4770 or email me atkhighberg@fhginc.com.  Visit us on Facebook at Residence Inn by Marriott Omaha Downtown, or online at  http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/omart-residence-inn-omaha-downtown-old-market-area/.